Montie 3: Ghana president releases men who threatened judges

Ghana President, John Mahama, has ordered early release of three men convicted over death threats against Supreme Court judges made during a panel discussion broadcast on a local radio.

The case was part of a bid by authorities to ensure stability ahead of a presidential election in December and protect Ghana’s image as a beacon of peace in West Africa.

Amid a dispute in June over voter roll revisions, Mahama supporters said on Accra-based Montie FM that they would hunt down and “finish” judges if they ruled in favour of the opposition.

They were convicted by the Supreme Court for contempt following a high-profile hearing, and sentenced to four months in prison.

“Mahama ordered them freed after they expressed remorse in a direct appeal,” a government statement said, adding that the men had also apologised in court.

“The president reminds all concerned, especially persons working in the media, to guard against the use of intemperate language which has the potential of causing unnecessary tension especially in this election year.”

Politicians of all parties said it was vital to ensure peace during what is likely to be a closely-fought election between Mahama and opposition leader, Nana Akufo-Addo.

Religious leaders and traditional chiefs had reinforced the same message.

Senior opposition figures criticised Mahama’s decision, arguing that he freed the men early because they were ruling party activists.